Saturday, January 31, 2009

I didn't have a topic for this week's show until I participated in Solana's chat room Friday night. There were several people who asked how they could develop their psychic or spiritual gifts. After talking with them and Solana, I decided it would be a wonderful topic for discussion. So those who can are invited to share and those would would like to learn are welcome to ask questions.

Soap Opera Fans: Speak out to Save the Genre by Boycotting NBCByTheresa Chaze

Like so many industries, television is financially top heavy with over paid executives, who suck up the profits while giving little or nothing back. The banking industry is a prime example of how those create nothing take the lion share of the profits, while those who do produce are asked to make financial sacrifices. Instead of taking across the board pay cuts, the television executives have decided to cut the quality and the diversity of their programming. By choosing amateur based “reality” shows over, those produced by talented and creative professionals, they under cut the unions, while disregarding the viewers.

In television, this can be best seen in the rapid movement toward the cheaper talk and reality shows. Using their declining revenue as an excuse, the networks are cutting production values of shows produced by professional casts and crews until such time as they are more financially secure. It is the equivalent of Taco Bell taking tacos off their menu until they sell enough burritos to make it cost effective to sell tacos again. Replacing quality product with cheaper doesn’t increase customer-viewer satisfaction; it forces them to seek other venues of satisfaction. As in all industries, the customer is always right or they become someone else’s customer.

Soap operas have been the hardest hit, not because they have lost popularity, but simply the modern family needs two incomes to survive. Originally targeting the stay at home mothers, the soaps focused on advertisers that appealed the needs of women, hence the name soap opera. However, one would only have to look at the highly profitable industries attached to soaps to learn just how loyal the fan bases are. The conventions, interview requests, and the multitude of websites are only a small example of industries, which have spun off the genre. Fans spend millions of dollars each year supporting hotels, conventions centers, and other fan events just to meet the soap opera stars.

As more women joined the work force, the popularity of soaps seemed decline. However it is the out dated ratings system failed to compensate for modern technology. Only those who watch the show live are counted by Nielsen Media Research. The system disregards any viewer who records and watches a show later. Instead of adjusting the viewer measuring system, the executives are using it as an excuse to cut the salaries of popular actors and creative technical people. They claim poverty while doing the equivalent of Merrill Lynch spending a million dollars to redecorate an office and giving out bonuses early. Instead of finding more efficient methods of accumulating viewer data, they are choosing to use it as an excuse to cancel soaps.

What started at Days of Our Lives has already begun to spread to the other soaps. The bad writing, the firing of major stars, while replacing them with talent-less younger actors, and the cutting production values is what is costing the shows viewers not the lack of interest. Loyal viewers are turning the channel not because they don’t love their show, but because they don’t recognize it any more.

It is time for soap fan to send a clear message to the networks. As in the movie, Network--it is time to stand up and say--”We are as mad as hell and we aren’t going to take it anymore!” The across the board boycotting of NBC for it’s systematic canceling the daytime soaps on it’s network will not only sent a clear message to them, but the other networks who might contemplating the same course of action. The only way to get their attention is to make them bleed in the wallet. Sending letters, emails and making phone calls no longer makes a difference; hit them at their bottom line and you start speaking their language. The power to control is seen on the television comes from the viewers' remotes, not the executives' office. It is time to for the fans to take their power back and demand that the soap opera genre be saved.

The past six months my company, Get Groovy has had the pleasure of working Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith’s team in preparation for his appearance in Fort Myers this February 13th and 14th. Some of you may have seen Michael on either Oprah or Larry King recently, or you may remember him from his appearance in the movie, “The Secret”. He is an Internationally-acclaimed Author, Speaker, and Spiritual Teacher. In fact, he was just named to Oprah’s Spirituality 101 team. Pretty awesome, right?!

Anyway, my point is this: My business partner and I have a 1-year old company, which is profitable and attracting national business. We opened our doors during what some deem the worst economic year in history and we are succeeding. Do you know why? Because, we are a part of what I call the Economic Progression: We utilize Michael Bernard Beckwith’s teachings in our work with our business as well as with our clients. We are passionate about helping people join the progression and that is why we have jumped on board to promote this amazing man! The main catalyst for the event is the Center for Spiritual Living, Cape Coral. The Center has kept prices down to keep him accessible to everyone; you can see him for $30, on Friday the 13th, $26 if you go with a group of 10 or more!! The Valentine’s seminar will take place at the Center for Spiritual Living and is filling up quickly. For detailed information on both seminars, you can go to: www.michaelbeckwithfl.com.

It would be grossly remiss of me not to mention the group of profitable local businesses, authors, and personalities who quickly stepped-up as sponsors to help bring Michael Bernard Beckwith and his teachings to one of the hardest-hit areas in our great Nation, Fort Myers. Event Sponsors include: Center for Spiritual Living, Cape Coral, Andy Dooley (Author, Spiritual teacher, and Artist—I’ve been to one of his workshops and LOVE him!), Ray Higdon of the Forever Wealth Club, David Essel, Author, Radio/TV Personality, Master Life/Business Coach, Adjunct Professor and Speaker (he is also our coach, and we love him!); Ruth Messmer Florist, Natural Awakenings Magazine, Fort Myers; Random Art House; and the Holiday Inn in Historic Downtown Fort Myers.

**Insert deep breath** Reading through this it sounds a little sales-ie, but that’s not my intent. I just wanted to share the opportunity to meet and learn from a man who has helped change my life and business in so many amazing ways. I wanted to offer a choice to those I love to join the progression. The choice is yours.

Friday, January 30, 2009

Written by Theresa Chaze, Never Can Say Good-bye is a paranormal romance that connects the present with the logging industry of the 1900. To help a friend, Elizabeth agrees to teach a writing course at a small college. She expects to find a sleepy town with a long history, but instead she finds herself dealing with violently jealous wife and the past mistakes she is only beginning to remember. Arriving in town, she finds it uncomfortably familiar. As the controlling President of the college, Judy Olson, shows her around, Elizabeth begins to realize that she has made a mistake and begins looking for excuses to leave. After meeting the famous historian, Michael Scott and his irrational wife, Shane, Elizabeth finds the past becoming more real than the present as the death of a small boy decades earlier reignites an old treachery, which could destroy the entire town. When love leads to vengeance, it is best to say good-bye.

Thursday, January 29, 2009

In HONOR DEFENDED, Book II of the Citizens Warrior series, the War on Terrorism slithers into Major Westfall's neck of the woods when a brother officer, home on leave from Iraq, is beheaded and his wife abducted by terrorists planning attacks his beloved America.

Major Westfall is awakened before dawn one freezing late winter Saturday by a frantic call from an old friend and War Brother. Already in bad mood, he sets out to hunt for those who burnt a woman's house on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, abducted her, and left behind her beheaded Marine Corps husband's body. On the beach behind the family's home, he finds sign of someone coming ashore on the last high tide. Tracks lead to a pile of driftwood where Black Dog noses out the family's wounded dog. Putting his ear to the Hoko grapevine, he hears of a break-in at the local gravel quarry where explosives and detonators were taken. A neighbor's grandchild mentions a missing school janitor, and the name her classmates gave him, Aladdin. When the Major takes a sneak and peek he unearths a terrorist sleeper. Calling in the troops, he prepares to do battle deep in the Olympic Peninsula wilderness where a cadre of evil guys have gathered, intent on creating havoc with Washington State's ferries. HONOR DEFENDED occurs over one 24 hour period of heart-pounding, breath-stopping action in which old friends are met, new ones made, the young must grow up fast as lives are broken, and the honor of a War Brother and his family is defended.

If you haven't joined the Major before,check out Book I of the Citizen Warrior series, Honor Due.Give both of them a read. I know you'll enjoy them!

Watch for HONOR REDEEMED, D. H. BROWN'S next thriller this fall.The Sex Slave Trade decides the Major's territory is a good place in which to hide it's wares. So begins a quiet war that encompasses the whole west coast. If you want to die, abuse a woman.

Patricia Harman has spend over 30 years caring for woman as a midwife, first as a lay-midwife, delivering babies in cabins and on communal farms in West Virginia and later as a nurse-midwife in teaching hospitals and in a community hospital birthing center. Her first book, The Blue Gown: A Midwife's Memoir honors her profession and the woman who came into her life

Monday, January 26, 2009

Patricia Harman has spend over 30 years caring for woman as a midwife, first as a lay-midwife, delivering babies in cabins and on communal farms in West Virginia and later as a nurse-midwife in teaching hospitals and in a community hospital birthing center. Her first book, The Blue Gown: A Midwife's Memoir honors her profession and the woman who came into her life

There are three ways to participate, on the phone, online and in the chat room. For those who have long distance issues. There is a button on the home page that connects the caller for free through Skype, but the connections are always very good. I would prefer for Patsy to call in about five minutes before the show starts. We can talk before hand. If it's possible, it would be good for her to be both online and on the phone, so she can also participate in the chat room. To do that you need to set up a free account at http://www.blogtalkradio.com

My radio show on Sunday is going to be how humor and comedy can sometimes not only be the best medicine, but also the only medicine that works. A good sense of humor can relief stress and diffuse challenging situations. However instead of my talking, I'm going to be playing music, telling jokes and generally being my weird and wonderful self. The show is going to be simply play time. I'm not sure what I'm going to come up with yet, but you can bet dollars to donuts, it'll be wacky and unexpected. So bring your jokes, the good, the bad and I don't thing you can say that on the radio and join in.

Many writers see themselves as God-almighty when it comes to the projects they work on. They control the motivation, the actions and the outcome from the first page to the last. In novels, this is true, but only if there is a sole author. When it comes to film and television, every project is a collaborative effort.

Writers who step into an existing show need to play catch up. No matter how much outside research she or he does, the actor who has lived in the role will be the best asset the writer can have. However, the reverse is also true. A new writer can breathe fresh air into a show, giving it new life and inspiration. By bringing in a new perspective, the writer can give new twists to old plots and help the actors develop additional depth to their characters by opening new challenges. There needs to be a balance between the past and the future in order for the show to stay imaginative and original from episode to episode--year to year. As long as a show remains balance by being inventive, while honoring its history and keeping the egos in check, it will be able to keep its fan base happy; thereby continuing its success

Betty Corday and Irna Philips created a show that was based on romance, suspense, drama and comedy. They valued the creative effort of both the cast and crew. Betty's motto, "Don't lie to the fans; Respect your talent" was one of the main pillars that made Days an icon in television history, as was Irna's steadfast determination to create the best show possible. These two women created a genre by not accepting less than the best; they bucked the system and convinced the networks to see it their way. Not only were they were able to invent a financially profitable product that lasted for decades, but they also did so in such away that the fans stayed loyal from generation to generation.

In the past two years, you have managed to destroy everything they created. You have turned Days into nothing more than soft porn. The fans didn't just leave; you drove them away with the endless triangles, lack of real story telling, and the gutting of the established characters. Instead of focusing on the veteran actors and established characters, you created new characters that were poor written. Most high school plays are not only better produced, but also have higher quality of talent than the new actors you have brought in. Let's face it your writing staff couldn't write themselves out of wet paper bag with Freddy Krueger's help.

Like most soap fans, I started watching because of my mother and grandmother. When Dark Shadows was cancelled, she switched to Days and Another World. Even when I worked at an ABC affiliate, I would record and watch both shows. When NBC cancelled Another World, I stopped watching NBC except for Days. The firing of Dee and Drake was the last straw. Not only am I done with Days, but NBC as well. The only demographics the show still appeals to are teeny-boppers and high school drop outs that have pie in the eye dreams of marrying a millionaire even though they can’t put a coherent simple sentence together. Neither of which has the buying power to sustain or attract a profitable commercial sponsorship. You have tossed away viewers who have been loyal for decades in favor of those who are insistent and unreliable as their whims change from moment to moment--fad to fad.

When Days is cancelled in a couple of months, I will take comfort in the fact that Corday, Tomlin and Higley will be forever be remembered for the destruction of a beloved icon. Only a total moron would hired them after the hack job they did on a viable profit show.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Dreams are amazing windows to not only our hopes and fears, but many times they also are symbolic of events in our lives that are happening in the present or are yet to be. Although there are many books that give definition of the symbols, they only generalize the meanings. Each of us have a very personal and individualist view of the world. These generalization can point us in the right direction, but they cannot tell us the whole picture. Our initial reaction or feelings about the dream is usually the correct one.

There is a specific reason why I am writing on this topic. This morning I had a dream that has stuck with me. When I first woke up, my intuition told me I needed to share it. As the day wore on, that feeling didn't change. Although there was much more to the dream, it is the last part that was the most important.

I was in a large room. How large I don't know. It seemed to go on forever. There were people every where. Even though we saw each other, we didn't really connect on any level. There were high walls that divided the room with wide corridors between them. Over the loud speaker a woman's voice told us to go to our assigned space. One the way we were to find a bundle; however, some of us were given it. Initially we all had wrapped package. I don't know where they came from but there were new people who showed up, who tried to take our bundles. This very thin woman tried to take mine. She grabbed at it with one hand, while trying to rip at my face with the other. I knocked her hand away and came back with a fist to her face. She fell backward. I followed and she disappeared. Over the loud speaker, the woman again spoke. She told us that those of us who still had our babies were to find our seats. I thought it was strange. As I looked for the seat with my name on it, I opened the bundle. It was a very large and ornate skull. The color were vibrate in blues, reds, purples. Jewels were embedded to form designs. I knew it was representative of the God Thoth.

Thoth is the Egyptian God of wisdom, magic, writing and science. He is considered the Great Arbitrator and judge of the Dead. Through the Ibis, he can be called on for aid and to help bring about karmic change.

I found my seat and sat down. Next to me was my friend Lynne. On the other side of her was another woman I knew then, but cannot remember her now. As I showed them the skull, it glowed. For a moment, it grew in size and brightness before by body absorbed it. The woman from speaker appeared. She was a woman who looked very young but seemed very old. She told us how the challenges in our lives were designed to expand our awareness. Lynne offered me balloons. I wanted a green one. She insisted I take a purple. She was so certain that I took the purple. We were told to blow them up as much as we could. We did but the balloons didn't get very big. Suddenly the air came out all of them. No matter how we tried, we couldn't keep the air in. The woman told us to blow them up again. This time the balloons were able to get much bigger, but then again the air came out. She told us that like the balloon as well learned we grew in size and strength. Again we blew up the balloons. My balloon was one of the largest. I said I smart ass remark--that I don't remember, which got the woman's attention. She asked me my name. I told her. She said no that it was Tera. She then corrected herself and told me that it was to short of a name for a being like me. She knew who I was and what I was there for. She walked away saying that she would remember it. what it was don't know. That is when the dream ended and I woke up.

Something important happened. There was a message sent. Hopefully soon I will remember.

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

I have made a few changes. Recently I learned that that format I was using was out dated, which is why I wasn't taken seriously. It seems the industry is more concerned with what a project looks like, instead of the content.

Yesterday, I downloaded Cinergy Script Editor. I will be using it from now on, so the script will be in proper format. However, the free version doesn't have all the features, one of them being spell check so there may be errors. Normally, I don't post first drafts of projects.

As I have promised I will finish the ghost story, but there is no guarantee that I will keep it going.

There are three ways to participate in the radio shows on Blog talk radio: by phone, through skype and the chat room. There is a call in number on the show page. By calling in, you can not only hear the show but participate in the discussion when the host opens your line. For Skype, which is a free call and the chat room it would be best to set up a free account. To do so go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/. To use Skype you will also need a working mic.

There is a song in the Rogers and Hammerstein Cinderelle called Impossible. It talks about the sensible people expect from life--how silly dreamers are. This show is about dreams. What is your heart's desire/ Is it the fear of failure or success that keeps you from reaching from them. The opening song is Impossible as sung by Lesley Ann Warren and Celeste Holm.

Here is your invitation to join the rest of us daft and dewy eyed dopes in not only sharing your dreams, but how you reach for them.

Until you walk the path, you don't know where it goes airs Sunday Jan 18 5 pm Eastern

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Many writers see themselves as God-almighty when it comes to the projects they work on. They control the motivation, the actions and the outcome from the first page to the last. In novels, this is true, but only if there is a sole author. Every other venue is a collective effort of talents and voices who work together towards a common goal. As long as there is equality and balance, most projects work. When projects fail, it is usually due to a prima donna in the group who insists on singing a soliloquy instead of being part of the chorus.

Although there were will eventually be editors who contribute to the finally draft of a book, the author is the primary creative force. Whether fiction or non-fiction, the author sets both the pace and the direction of the piece. There is one vision, one voice and ultimately one person responsible for the completed project. It is a very self-contained process, with little or no outside creative input until it is offered to the public.

In both movies and television, the writer is the architect who creates the blueprint that others will make a reality. Producers provide the resources and hire the staff. The director organizes the technical staff and builds the structure. The actors and musicians are the interior decorators, who give it color and depth to make it livable. No one role is any more important than another for each contributes equally to the finished product. Like architect, once the writer turns over the script, they are relegated to a consultant role on this project, while moving to their next creative challenge.

In the same way that movies and television differ from books, so does television differ from movies. In most cases, a film is a self contained project that brings together the talent for a single closed-ended event. In television, the major goal is to keep it going indefinitely. Although some of staff may change, there is always a group who will remain from the moment the lights were turned on to they go dark. The longer the show runs the smaller the inner core comes. It is this group who are the ultimate experts on the show; they are living biographies of the characters and the show’s history.

In most cases, writers, directors and technical staff rotate in and out, but it is the on air talent that the viewers most closely identify with the show. The actor, who originated the character, has the consistency and a clearer understanding of the inner qualities that keeps it popular and growing. The initial writers may have created the characters, but it is the actors who take them off the page and make them real to the audience. Even if the originating writer remains with the show, there needs to be a cooperative effort between the writer and actor in order for the character to develop. Without this balance, the character will not be consistent or believable. The writer has to understand the character in order to make it convincing, just as the actor has to be comfortable living in the character’s skin to keep the characterization a good fit.

Writers who step into an existing show need to play catch up. No matter how much outside research she or he does, the actor who has lived in the role will be the best asset the writer can have. However, the reverse is also true. A new writer can breathe fresh air into a show, giving it new life and inspiration. By bringing in a new perspective, the writer can give new twists to old plots and help the actors develop additional depth to their characters by opening new challenges. There needs to be a balance between the past and the future in order for the show to stay imaginative and original from episode to episode--year to year. As long as a show remains balance by being inventive, while honoring its history, and keeping the egos in check, it will be able to keep its fan base happy; thereby continuing its success.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

In style, television and movie script are similar; however, television programs must format around commercials and station identification. While movies contain a full hour of entertainment, broadcast television is broken down into approximately 22 minutes of entertainment and 8 minutes of commercials per half hour.

Most one hour shows have six 2.02 minute breaks with two 1.34, which fall at the top and bottom of the hour. Generally this leaves 22 minutes per half hour for the actual show, which is broken down further into the teaser/open, three acts and bottom of the hour teaser/bridge for the local break. The second half hour also has three acts, but it is ended with a teaser/closing credits and the top of the hour break.

Whether starting at the top or bottom of the hour, the initial segment, contains the show teaser and opening; its run time varies between 2-4 minutes in length. The following three acts divide the remaining entertainment time between them without any set length; however, most stations, especially during ratings, identify themselves within a two minute margin at the quarter hour; therefore, there is usually a break written in to accommodate this standard. The second half hour also begins with a teaser, which identifies the show and the network, and is followed by a local commercial with identification. Most shows end with a 2-4 minute teaser of the next episode and the ending credits with another local break following.

Unless you have a talent that milks their part, usually one page of script equals one minute of air time. This generality helps the writer pace the storyline and time the scenes to maximize the suspense in order to hold the audience’s attention through the commercial breaks. By splitting the action between multiply scenes to create mini cliffhangers, the writer suspends the action in order to height the drama and prevent channel surfing. It is also how a creative writer creates an effective end of an episode cliffhanger to torment the viewers into returning to see what happens to their favorite characters.

Format for one hour television script2-4 minutes teaser and show open

2.02 minute commercial break

Act 1

2.02 minute commercial break

Act 2

2.02 minute commercial break

Act 3

1:34 minute commercial break

20 second teaser- 10 seconds from each half hour

1:34 bottom of the hour local break

Act 4

2.02 minute commercial break

Act 5

2.02 minute commercial break

Act 6

2.02 minute commercial break

2-4 tag and end credits

1:34 local top of the hour break

No doubt many of you are asking why the script I have been writing for Days doesn’t meet this industry standard. Very simple. There are two reasons. When I started, it was a protest that I never thought would go any where. Originally I was going to write a few scenes to embarrass the writers into their job. However, I received so much positive feedback that I just kept going. Secondly, a major of my script writing experience was for the stage and screen. Even then, it had been a while since I worked on a long project. My information was not only dated, but I had forgotten a few little details. The new scenes will be in the correct format. I’ve also started the process of reformatting and restructuring the rest to not only meet the industry standards but to also put it into episodes. During the process a few scenes will have to be tweaked, but it will give me a chance to improve them as well. Although I knew how I wanted the storylines to unfold, everything that I have posted still qualifies for first draft status. The reality is that I had put little effort into the project yet it was still be better than the so called professionals; hat do you think I could do if I actually put work it to the project?

Monday, January 12, 2009

In the entertainment industry, it can truly be said that everything old is new again. From the beginning of the film industry to the current contract negotiations, studio executives have attempted to keep the lion share of the profits, while denying the necessity or importance of the skilled workers and talent that make the industry possible. The movement towards reality shows is just latest in the long line of attempts to devalue industry professionals in order to keep salaries and benefits low.

The American film industry was created by pioneers who weren't thinking about changing the world, but how to make a quick buck. Nickelodeon owners quickly learned that the true money was to be made by producing films instead of just showing them. The ruthless competition between the studios eventually led to the top nine forming the Motion Pictures Patient Company, which signed an exclusive contract for the film stock produce by the George Eastman factory. The contract created a monopoly that not only controlled who could produce films, but also which films could be made and where the films could be shown. Anyone failing to meet the Trust, as the Motion Picture Patient Company came to be known, was either excluded from the industry or found themselves to be the target of violent attacks.

The strangle hold the Trust held on the business cascaded throughout the industry. Independent film producers were denied access to film stock made in the United States. Although they could buy stock from other countries, they also had additional difficulties with processing the film. In addition, the Trust was known to use strong arm tactics to shut down offices and destroy sets. In spite of public interest, on-screen talent was considered easily replaceable by the studios and was listed only by their character name in the credits. By limiting the information, studios prevented the actors from building a fan base that would give her or him financial or creative leverage. Distributors were required not only pay a fee to distribute Trust films, but they were also limited to showing only films produced by the Trust studios. To do other would bring down the Trust’s wrath. Not only would films be withheld, but their Nickelodeon would be subject to the same violence as the filmmakers. Between the anti-trust court battles and the influx of foreign film stock, the Motion Picture Patents Company was busted in 1917, clearing the way not only for independent film makers but for the actors and production staff to start receiving their due.

The independents were not only more willing to take risks on subject matter, but they saw the profit in creating a star system. They realized that in the short run it would cost more in salaries, but in the long run the profits would be much greater. Signing actors to exclusive contracts insured that their fan base would also stay loyal to the studio. Although the stars gained in notoriety, they lost independence. Morality clauses in the contracts gave the studio executive a great deal of control over their private as well as professional lives. Bound by contracts, actors were assigned roles based availability instead of desire to play the role or compatibility for the part. Contract actors received a weekly paycheck whether or not they worked; therefore, the studios used them as frequently as possible, even if the connection between role and actor had to be forced.

When the Supreme Court ruled that the ownership of theaters and film distribution was a violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act, the studio contracts was brought to an end. Having to compete for theatrical screens forced the studios to limit the number of movies they released a year and increase the quality of the productions. Instead, cast and crew were hired for individual projects. No longer held by the rigid contract system, actors, directors, producers and the technical crew were able to not only chose projects, but also negotiate the terms of their contracts. Whether on-screen or behind the scenes, the more popular the talent, the more control she or he has in determining the terms of the agreement.

In response to the increasing competition of networks and entertainment venues, the networks have created cheaper ‘reality” shows that do not focus on professional talent, storylines or staging. Although reality shows have been around since radio, it wasn’t until the 2000s that they became highly prolific. The shows feature ordinary people in situations that have little to do with reality; instead the shows have become a hybrid of games shows and dramas, as the participates compete against each other for prizes. Using exotic locations or sets, the audience becomes voyeurs as they are giving glimpses behind scenes. Even with million dollar prizes, these shows are cheaper to produce than those with skilled artisans.

The star system has come full circle as once again studio executives chose to use unknown players as a way of streamlining costs so that they may retain more of the profits. Instead of improving the quality of the shows to increase revenues, they chose to produce and promote entertainment shows of lower quality both in content and production values. By giving ordinary folk fifteen minutes of fame, the studios undermine the guilds and unions of the entertainment industry, thereby increasing the power of the studios to not only control but also manipulate the industry. The movement away from professional talent back to the nameless performers is a tactic taking straight from the Motion Pictures Patient Company’s hand book as they once again chose quantity over quality.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

I will be talking about learning how to think outside the box in order to find alternative answers in your life. Not only money, but the people and resources that you need to live comfortable and to make your dreams come true. By focusing our energy on what we what to create, instead of what we are trying to avoid, we find alterntative solutions. I will be using my experiences in publishing as examples of how there are more than one way around every bush.

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

I have always loved the old radio dramas. This show will be an experiment along those lines. If it doesn't work as planned, I'll take calls and play music. So cross your fingers, I'm trying a new path.

The Avalon Sisterhood was charged by the Earth Mother to spread themselves to the four winds. In each in turned learned from the Goddesses of the world of the different lands and peoples, so that might gain new wisdom and an understanding of the cultures of world. The Templar Knights swore a blood oath to protect the sisterhood and to save guard the means they would need at the time of the planetary awakening. As the Piscean age finally comes to an end, the Sisters awaken. It's now time for the Knights to fulfill their oath.

Monday, January 05, 2009

April 15, 2007 (Press Release) -- Out of the Shadows And Into the Light:A book of shadows for the modern worldby Theresa ChazeValkyrie Publishing, 2007105 pages, illustratedReview by Jeffrey Redmond (April 2007)

This is my very first introduction to the actual works of Theresa Chaze. A Wiccan priestess and author of the Dragon Clan trilogy, she has greatly impressed me with her teaching and wisdom. I have been able to read and experience her Out of the Shadows via the PDF file as an e-publication, fully reflective of the modern 21st Century.

Theresa's book is also timeless, in that it draws about the knowledge of our ancient ancestors, as Wicca is indeed a many centuries old religion and way of life. Fully explained are such relevant and useful topics as Wicca itself, rituals, circles, candles, altars, magic, prayers, spells, and the roles of pagan practices. And, especially, the practical applications of these in our modern living today.

Wicca remains a completely relevant concept of life, and an additional positive dimension in our daily activities. This work is thus a highly useful tool to use as guidelines and a manual for learning, understanding, and applying the study and practices of this important way. Out of the Shadows can be a highly effective guide for both those who are new to Wicca, as well as those much more familiar and experienced with it.

It can be completely safe to say that Theresa Chaze begins where J.K. Rowling leaves off. This is a much more detailed work of the magic and applications, as are done by the characters in the Harry Potter series. And Wicca always emphasizes the positive forces of nature and the universe, in order to promote and maintain a more happy and prosperous life for everyone and everything. Those interested in fantasy, mythology, New Age, and alternative living included.

Out of the Shadows is a terrific non-fiction book, and I can definitely recommend it. The lovely and detailed color illustrations, created and taken from different sources, truly enhance this wonderful work throughout. Pagani of all crafts and paths will find this an excellent addition to their libraries. And this applies to each and every priest and priestess, lord and lady, and all practitioners as well. Theresa Chaze has definitely done it again. Read, learn, and enjoy!

I appreciate the opportunity to read, review, and keep this book of shadows for my own modern world. Thanks Theresa!{:-) Jeff RedmondGrand Rapids, Michigan

Out of the Shadows and Into the Light can be bought at www.theresachaze.com and as a Amazon Kindle.

Sunday, January 04, 2009

Join Jewels as she talks with one of the stars of The Secret, John Assaraf. We will be talking about his early youth, his discovery of the Law of Attraction and how changing his thoughts led him to build four multi-million dollar corporations. Great story!

Silver from the Circle of Cosmic Inspiration and the Wolf Run Wildlife Rescue groups will talking about the planned events for both groups. She has been an active participate in organizing Pagan Pride Days. She is also a Tarot reader. She will be answer questions on the organizations she is and has been involved along with any other topics that come up.

Silver from the Circle of Cosmic Inspiration and the Wolf Run Wildlife Rescue groups will talking about the planned events for both groups. She has been an active participate in organizing Pagan Pride Days. We will be discussing how important and easy it is for Wiccans and Pagans to help others in need. She will be answer questions on the organizations she is and has been involved, along with any other topics that come up.

The show will air live Sunday January 4, 5 pm Eastern at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/theresachaze To actively participate with the show in the chat room, you will need to sign up for the free member ship. The call in phone number will be available. Listener are encouraged to call in.

Friday, January 02, 2009

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives Here is the next installment of my alternative storylines for Days of Our Lives.

I have made a few changes. Recently I learned that that format I was using was out dated, which is why I wasn't taken seriously. It seems the industry is more concerned with what a project looks like, instead of the content.

Yesterday, I downloaded Cinergy Script Editor. I will be using it from now on, so the script will be in proper format. However, the free version doesn't have all the features, one of them being spell check so there may be errors. Normally, I don't post first drafts of projects.

I wish I would have known about the program earlier. The program makes the process so much easier. If I didn't have so many other projects, I would reformat the previous posts, but it's not a simple cut and past and I have other projects that need my attention.

As I have promised I will finish the ghost story, but there is no guarantee that I will keep it going.

Thursday, January 01, 2009

Traverse City-Valkyrie Publishing offers cost effective video production services for not only books but also other products and services. With the increasing number of sites, which offer video placement, online marketing and promotion is now available no matter how small of a budget.

Book trailers, also called book videos, are the wave of the future when it comes to book marketing and promotions. Whether self published, POD or traditionally published, book trailers give a professional look to books of all genres. They are cost efficient and effective tools for online marketing that the traditional press release cannot compete with.

Using voice-overs, graphics and music, trailers enhance the promotional message by adding additional layers of information. When properly produced, the trailer adds dimensional qualities, which include both the visual and auditory senses. By combining the elements into a single cohesive package, the producer creates a product that is not only more appealing, but also longer lasting.

Founder and CEO of Valkyrie Publishing, Theresa Chaze is not only a novelist and screen writer, but also a video producer, director and editor. She has several novels available and her screenplays have won awards. In addition, she has years of experience working in broadcast television. By combining her talents and her experience, she is able to product trailers that are unique, effective and cost efficient. Examples of her work can be viewed at

Her current and past clients have the following to say about the work Valkyrie Publishing has done for them.

"Theresa Chaze has the experience and know how to turn out quality high-performing book trailers. I am very pleased with the work she has done for us at Pump Up Your Book Promotion!"Dorothy Thompson, CEO & Founder Pump Up Your Book Promotion

Theresa's book trailers are creative, compelling and very competitively priced. Her placement of these on various online sites goes way beyond YouTube. Authors can be assured that her book trailers will help elevate their book from the printed word. I recommend her book trailer services. Scott LorenzPresident Westwind Communicationsscottlorenz@westwindcos.com

Theresa put together a book trailer for my novel MRS. LIEUTENANT that was an original -- not simply a cookie-cutter book trailer that could fit almost any book. She took the time to research the era of the Vietnam War and then used her research to craft a quality book trailer whose script, graphics and music reflected the tension of the time when the novel takes place.

I would definitely use Theresa again to do a book trailer for me, and I particularly appreciated the open communication between her and myself that allowed me to have input on the trailer.Phyllis Zimbler MillerMILLER MOSAIC, LLC -- Working to Make Your Life Easierwww.millermosaic.com

Theresa Chaze produced my book trailer and I was stunned at how wonderfully she captured, truly captured, the spirit of my book! Others have contacted me to tell me what a wonderful book trailer I had and the raves continue to come in. Ms. Chaze is not only astute but sensitive to the driving force of authors and their books. Ms. Chaze is president of Valkyrie Publishing. Look out world! Authors have a real voice now and the PR industry will never be the same again!--Cate Cavanagh, author of Her Godmother. See my trailer here: somethingmagicalinourmists.blogspot.comCATE CAVANAGHAuthor, HER GODMOTHER

I enthusiastically take great pleasure in recognizing the fine professional services of Theresa Chaze and her wonderful, Book Trailer Production Services. I am a recipient of her great talent in which she has provided visual services in promoting my book. Aside from my very strong endorsement, a literary colleague mentioned upon witnessing, Theresa Chaze's fine work on my book, suggested that all of my family and friends view my website www.angusrmunro.com - under Angus Munro on You Tube. Her services to me, can best be described as, "The icing on the cake!" Gratefully, Angus Munro, Full House - But Empty by Angus Munro Bakersfield, California

"It has been our good fortune to have Theresa Chaze and Valkyrie Publishing do the video production for book trailers for two of our books, Honor Due and Standing The Watch: The Greatest Gift. Both of our authors were very pleased with the end product and the level of production. We fully intend to use her services again for our forthcoming books." Big River Press

"I was most pleased with the video book trailer of Honor Due produced by Theresa Chaze and Valkyrie Publishing. She captured the spirit of the my book and characters. I am looking forward to using her services again with my next book." D. H. Brown, author of Honor Due

In the past few years I have been extremely fortunate to have Theresaworking on the promotion and marketing of my novels. She has doneexcellent creating video blurbs for You Tube and other places. Highlyimaginative and eye catching. Thanks to her my books sales havebeen higher than expected.

Theresa is a writer and published author herself. She truly understandsthe needs of other writers at all levels. Her experience allows her to befocused and aware of what it takes to get published and promotednowadays. I am honored to be able to give her book trailer services aglowing recommendation. Especially because she has helped me sowonderfully much.

Please be sure that Theresa will do her best for you and your works.You definitely won't be disappointed.

Jeffrey Redmond

For my memoir about taking care of my dying father-in-law, Theresa Chaze intuited exactly the mood & ambience. The seamless flow of photos, the music she chose & her tone of voice as she read excerpts were so exquisite they brought tears to my eyes. Made me see what I'd written in a whole new light. I highly recommend her services. The work and shear professionalism displayed by Theresa Chaze and Valkyrie Publishing in the book video production for my book Standing The Watch: The Greatest Gift was stunning. I will be very pleased to work with her again on my next book, The Dead Husband."

R. J. Brown, STANDING THE WATCH: The Greatest Gift.

I can't express how I felt when I saw that trailer! It embodiedeverything that Street Lit is in general as a genre and that my novel isin particular! You are a true Wiccan priestessbecause you've just wielded some wonderful magick with this booktrailer!! Kudos!!

Never Can Say Good-bye

About Me

I have been describes woman who has the courage to play with dragons. I go where fools and angels fear to walk and have flourished.

Writer and Executive Producer, I love creating projects that not only entertain, but help others remember how to feel and care about others. My characters are those that others can easily relate to. My plots are more than excuses for sex, violence and special effects. They are stories, not two hour infomercials to sell crap to kids. I'm looking for those who wish to join me on this new adventure.Author and screenwriter, she takes others to magical realms of suspense and romance, while reminding them life without humor is a very sad place.